You may be through with school, but you still have to do your homework. Most jobs are won or lost in preinterview preparation, says Jeffrey Fox, author of Don’t Send a Resume (Hyperion, $17).

Do as much research as possible about the company: Research job responsibilities on sites like www.salary.com and Monster (www.monster.com) so you’ll be able to speak intelligently about the position. Contact people who work at the company through websites like LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com), advises Liz Ryan, CEO of WorldWit (www.worldwit.org), a networking group for professional women.

Don’t assume a power suit is appropriate: If the interviewer is in jeans and a T-shirt while you’re in pumps and pearls, she might decide you won’t fit in. Get a sense of the company’s culture first. If you have no idea, drop off a résumé with the receptionist, with a note saying how much you’re looking forward to the interview. You’ll be able to check out what people are wearing, and you’ll feel more confident when you come back.